Spanish Mediterranean Coast, Algeria & Sardinia: Andalusia and the Balearics
Treasures of the Mediterranean in spring
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Málaga to Barcelona
Eight nights aboard L'Austral trace a spring arc from Andalusia to Catalonia, with rare calls along the North African coast and a return via the Balearics. The 184-guest Ponant Classic sistership combines French elegance with premium all-inclusive service, a fold-out marina platform and a Zodiac fleet. Spring brings mild temperatures, crisp light and harbours uncluttered by peak-season crowds. The route blends historic ports, island atmosphere and seldom-visited Algerian shores.
Route highlights
- Malaga: Andalusian port city with the Picasso Museum, the Moorish Alcazaba and a lively tapas culture.
- Cartagena: Augustan-era Roman theatre and one of the Mediterranean's best-sheltered natural harbours.
- Ibiza: The UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila above the harbour reveals the quiet, historic side of the Balearic island.
- Annaba: Rarely visited Algerian port with Roman roots (Hippo Regius) and the Basilica of Saint Augustine.
- Cagliari: Capital of Sardinia, its Castello quarter perched above the Gulf of Angels.
- Mao on Menorca: One of the world's deepest natural harbours, with Georgian traces from the island's British period.
- Barcelona: Disembarkation in the Catalan capital, home to Gaudi's Sagrada Familia and the Gothic quarter.
Early booking advantage: Voyages in 2027 fill quickly - premium cabins are often reserved 18-24 months in advance. An early booking enquiry is non-binding and secures your preferred cabin category.
The Route
Málaga
8 nights
Barcelona
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Málaga · Embarkation
On the Costa del Sol in Andalusia on Spain's southern Mediterranean coast lies Málaga at the foot of the El Torcal mountains. Birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the city is today a major cultural hub with the Picasso Museum, the Moorish Alcazaba from the 11th century, the Roman theatre ruins and a lively harbour quarter around the Muelle Uno.
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Cartagena
Cartagena is a port city on the Spanish Mediterranean coast in the Murcia region and home to one of the country's principal naval bases. Carthaginians, Romans and Moors all shaped the bay, and the Roman theatre from the time of Augustus, rediscovered in the city centre, is among the most impressive in Spain.
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Ibiza, Balearen
Ibiza's old town Dalt Vila is a fully preserved Renaissance fortress on a hill and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Beyond the nightlife, the island surprises with lavender fields, authentic fishing villages and the Ses Salines nature reserve with its flamingo-inhabited salt pans.
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Algier
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Annaba
Annaba lies on the Mediterranean coast in north-eastern Algeria near the Tunisian border. On the hills above the city stands the Basilica of St. Augustine beside the ruins of ancient Hippo Regius, where the church father served as bishop for 35 years.
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Cagliari, Sardinien
Cagliari, capital of Sardinia, is crowned by its Pisan citadel overlooking the Molentargius lagoon. Excursions lead into the Gennargentu National Park, to the Nuragic complex of Su Nuraxi (UNESCO World Heritage) and to the white beaches of the Costa del Sud.
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Mahón, Balearen
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Tarragona · Disembarkation
Climate & best time to sail
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 15 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 31 | 27 | 23 | 18 | 16 |
| Sea °C | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 18 | 16 |
| Rain mm | 43 | 37 | 25 | 32 | 30 | 15 | 7 | 20 | 52 | 66 | 58 | 52 |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Balearic Islands (Palma)
L'Austral
L'Austral belongs to Ponant's Odyssée class: 264 guests, ice-reinforced hull, French cuisine with wine at dinner. Large enough for comfort on the open sea, small enough for fjords, pack ice boundaries and islands without a harbour.
In the Mediterranean, L'Austral combines cultural voyages with the savoir-vivre of the Ponant philosophy: onboard lectures, regional cuisine, small ports with history.
The Ship
Cabins
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
Deck plan · L'Austral
Cabin prices
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superior Aussenkabine | € 5.420 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Balkonkabine | € 5.700 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 4 - CHANDERNAGOR | € 5.980 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 5 - BENGALE | € 6.260 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Kabine Deck 6 - MAHE | € 6.600 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite - MAHE | € 10.470 | On request | Enquire |
| Prestige Suite Deck 5 | € 11.590 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Suite Deck 6 | € 11.870 | Available | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - MAHE | € 18.180 | Available | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Full board in gourmet and À-la-carte restaurants
- Afternoon tea and pastries
- Open bar: water, soft drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, beers, coffee and tea
- Minibar in cabin, regularly refilled
- 24-hour cabin service
- All gratuities for crew and service staff
- Complimentary WiFi onboard (standard usage)
- Butler service (in higher suite categories on select ships)
- Zodiac excursions with experienced guides (on Expedition voyages)
- Expert lectures by scientists, marine biologists and historians
- Water sports equipment: kayaks, stand-up paddling, snorkelling gear (subject to weather and region)
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from ship (transfers, pre- or post-programmes)
- Some special shore excursions
- Spa treatments
Frequently asked questions
How do I book this voyage?
Send us a non-binding enquiry via the form on this page. Our team replies personally within 24 hours with availability, cabin options and a tailored offer. No enquiry fee, no upfront payment.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 8 nights from EUR 4.830 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the L'Austral?
A maximum of 264 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
When is the best time to sail this voyage?
The best time to sail this route is May to October.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
